The Daily Beauty Report (31.07.14)

As you can see from today's images that Autumn is certainly on its way, one trend I have noticed is that deep Merlot nail shades seem to be all the range. Anyway here is what is happening in the beauty world at the moment...

Kiko expand out a little with hand and foot care "KIKO Make Up Milano has unveiled a new collection for hands and feet, launching next month. New products include: Hand & Foot Stone Scrub, which gently exfoliates and smooths skin as the pumice paste removes dead skin cells; Intensive Hand Gloves and Intensive Foot Socks, to nourish the skin, soften the cuticles and prepare fingers and toenails for treatments; and Intensive Hand Balm, which contains aloe vera, shea butter and avocado oil to nourish and moisturise skin."

If you like mineral make-up this could be of interest "Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics has introduced three new products to its range. New Ultimate Concealer is a creamy duo feature a peach and yellow shade that blends to cover and brighten dark circles, while hiding imperfections under and around the eye area. With light perfecting properties, the product contains both vitamins and plant extracts. The peach shade eliminates blue tones in the skin, while the yellow neutralises any purple discolouration. The Luminous Créme Blush in Luxe is a maroon-burgundy shade with a weightless formula that blends on the skin, providing the glow of a cream and a silkiness of a powder.Lip Liner in Pinot is a burgundy shade that pairs well with darker lipstick shades, offering high pigment and conditioning benefits with vitamin E."

I have been really fortunate and been able to test this nearly a full month ahead of launch date and let me tell you it does not disappoint! I will have a full review up on day of launch but until then "Yves Saint Laurent Beauté has announced the launch of Fusion Foundation, combining patented advances in texture, colour and active ingredients. Featuring a liquid-to-pigment formula, the foundation combines sensorial and volatile oils which, upon contact with skin, evaporate away, leaving only a veil of pigment blend. Offering 24 hour coverage, the formula contains pure, milled pigments each with a micro-coating that merges with the surface of the skin, while the actives work to both mattify and hydrate the skin, regardless of heat, humidity, or time of day. The light-weight, buildable coverage foundation delivers SPF 18 and is available in 16 shades across Beige, Rosy Beige and Beige Doré shade categories." This will launch on the 10th of August (Debenhams) and then 20th of August (nationwide)

I am rather enjoying the fact that so many high street brands are launching gel infused nail polishes, anything that gives a glossy finish and actually results in less chips gets the thumbs up from me! "Max Factor has announced the launch of Gel Shine Lacquer. Formulated with bentonite clay gel, the product delivers a high pigment loading formula which stops the formula from moulding into the natural ridges on the nail, providing a smooth finish. It works by self-levelling which ensures a finish without streaks, brush marks or lines. A special two-fold patented plasticizer adds flexibility to the nitrocellulose within the formula. The increased flexibility gives a strong resistant film to minimise impact on the nail, reducing chipping. Shades include: Vivid Vermillion (neon orange), Patent Poppy (red with orange), Radiant Ruby (burgundy), Twinkling Pink (bright pink), Sparkling Berry (berry burgundy), Sheen Merlot (rich burgundy), Glazed Cobalt (cool blue), Gleaming Teal ( teal); and Lacquered Violet (violet). "At £7.99 they aren't the cheapest but they won't break the bank either and they will launch in a matter of days.

Deep shades galore and a launch date of the 30th of September pencilled in "Parfums Givenchy has announced the launch of Le Rouge-À-Porter, a new limited edition colour collection of nail and lip products. Incorporating the signature shade of Prune, the range includes: Le Rouge Brun Créateur No. 103 and Le Vernis Rose Poudré No. 17; Le Rouge Rose Plumetis No. 207 (vibrant pink) and Le Vernis Rose Satin No. 18 (tea-pink); and the deep plum shades of Le Rouge Framboise Velours No. 315 and Le Vernis Framboise Velours No. 19. In addition, the brand has announced the launch of its new website, an online showcase for the brand’s products. The new website invites visitors to explore the world of Givenchy beauty and discover its complete range of fragrances, make-up and skincare products through a new digital experience, which is also optimised for navigation on tablets. Further sections and features will be added to the website by the end of the year, including a presentation of Givenchy's history and designers, regularly updated editorial content, interactive modules and personalised diagnosis tools."

A little odd for a fragrance line but hey who am I to judge! "S-Perfume has announced the launch of a new collection of fragrances with a new minimal visual design. The fragrances are inspired by Japanese culture, obsession with sex, the quest for love, the passion for nature and arts, as well as the style of S-Perfume founder, artist and sculptor Nobi Schioya. Fragrances comprise S-ex, 100%Love, MuskS, 1499, Himiko and Kamakura, with the palette of colours on the bottle reflecting the main essence in each fragrance." They will launch this week and cost £98 per bottle. Ouch!

Have a lovely evening!


The Daily Beauty Report (31.07.14)

The Daily Beauty Report (31.07.14)

As you can see from today's images that Autumn is certainly on its way, one trend I have noticed is that deep Merlot nail shades seem to be all the range. Anyway here is what is happening in the beauty world at the moment...

Kiko expand out a little with hand and foot care "KIKO Make Up Milano has unveiled a new collection for hands and feet, launching next month. New products include: Hand & Foot Stone Scrub, which gently exfoliates and smooths skin as the pumice paste removes dead skin cells; Intensive Hand Gloves and Intensive Foot Socks, to nourish the skin, soften the cuticles and prepare fingers and toenails for treatments; and Intensive Hand Balm, which contains aloe vera, shea butter and avocado oil to nourish and moisturise skin."

If you like mineral make-up this could be of interest "Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics has introduced three new products to its range. New Ultimate Concealer is a creamy duo feature a peach and yellow shade that blends to cover and brighten dark circles, while hiding imperfections under and around the eye area. With light perfecting properties, the product contains both vitamins and plant extracts. The peach shade eliminates blue tones in the skin, while the yellow neutralises any purple discolouration. The Luminous Créme Blush in Luxe is a maroon-burgundy shade with a weightless formula that blends on the skin, providing the glow of a cream and a silkiness of a powder.Lip Liner in Pinot is a burgundy shade that pairs well with darker lipstick shades, offering high pigment and conditioning benefits with vitamin E."

I have been really fortunate and been able to test this nearly a full month ahead of launch date and let me tell you it does not disappoint! I will have a full review up on day of launch but until then "Yves Saint Laurent Beauté has announced the launch of Fusion Foundation, combining patented advances in texture, colour and active ingredients. Featuring a liquid-to-pigment formula, the foundation combines sensorial and volatile oils which, upon contact with skin, evaporate away, leaving only a veil of pigment blend. Offering 24 hour coverage, the formula contains pure, milled pigments each with a micro-coating that merges with the surface of the skin, while the actives work to both mattify and hydrate the skin, regardless of heat, humidity, or time of day. The light-weight, buildable coverage foundation delivers SPF 18 and is available in 16 shades across Beige, Rosy Beige and Beige Doré shade categories." This will launch on the 10th of August (Debenhams) and then 20th of August (nationwide)

I am rather enjoying the fact that so many high street brands are launching gel infused nail polishes, anything that gives a glossy finish and actually results in less chips gets the thumbs up from me! "Max Factor has announced the launch of Gel Shine Lacquer. Formulated with bentonite clay gel, the product delivers a high pigment loading formula which stops the formula from moulding into the natural ridges on the nail, providing a smooth finish. It works by self-levelling which ensures a finish without streaks, brush marks or lines. A special two-fold patented plasticizer adds flexibility to the nitrocellulose within the formula. The increased flexibility gives a strong resistant film to minimise impact on the nail, reducing chipping. Shades include: Vivid Vermillion (neon orange), Patent Poppy (red with orange), Radiant Ruby (burgundy), Twinkling Pink (bright pink), Sparkling Berry (berry burgundy), Sheen Merlot (rich burgundy), Glazed Cobalt (cool blue), Gleaming Teal ( teal); and Lacquered Violet (violet). "At £7.99 they aren't the cheapest but they won't break the bank either and they will launch in a matter of days.

Deep shades galore and a launch date of the 30th of September pencilled in "Parfums Givenchy has announced the launch of Le Rouge-À-Porter, a new limited edition colour collection of nail and lip products. Incorporating the signature shade of Prune, the range includes: Le Rouge Brun Créateur No. 103 and Le Vernis Rose Poudré No. 17; Le Rouge Rose Plumetis No. 207 (vibrant pink) and Le Vernis Rose Satin No. 18 (tea-pink); and the deep plum shades of Le Rouge Framboise Velours No. 315 and Le Vernis Framboise Velours No. 19. In addition, the brand has announced the launch of its new website, an online showcase for the brand’s products. The new website invites visitors to explore the world of Givenchy beauty and discover its complete range of fragrances, make-up and skincare products through a new digital experience, which is also optimised for navigation on tablets. Further sections and features will be added to the website by the end of the year, including a presentation of Givenchy's history and designers, regularly updated editorial content, interactive modules and personalised diagnosis tools."

A little odd for a fragrance line but hey who am I to judge! "S-Perfume has announced the launch of a new collection of fragrances with a new minimal visual design. The fragrances are inspired by Japanese culture, obsession with sex, the quest for love, the passion for nature and arts, as well as the style of S-Perfume founder, artist and sculptor Nobi Schioya. Fragrances comprise S-ex, 100%Love, MuskS, 1499, Himiko and Kamakura, with the palette of colours on the bottle reflecting the main essence in each fragrance." They will launch this week and cost £98 per bottle. Ouch!

Have a lovely evening!


Maybelline Electro Baby Lips

I'm not going to beat around the bush - Maybelline Baby Lips Lip Balms are only okay. They aren't the worst lip balm out there by any stretch of the imagination but the hype surrounding such brightly colour lip salves is vastly undeserved. I feel exactly the same way about the Maybelline Electro Baby Lips. Sorry Maybelline I do love you, I swear.

Maybelline Electro Baby Lips
Maybelline Electro Baby Lips

What is surprising is just how soft and almost liquid like this seemingly hard balm feels on the lips, I expected such a firm to texture to tug and pull at the lips but it does the opposite it glides on with such ease with a light texture. Maybelline claim that Baby Lips offer 8 hours of hydration and I'm afraid that it is not case it is closer to 2 hours, as long as the balm is on the lips the skin will remain moisturised but once it wears off all the benefits tend to vanish. For a product that costs less than £3 the ingredients are pretty substantial and include vitamin E, aloe, honey, shea butter and in some instances an SPF of 20. However I should mention that all of the Baby Lips contain petroleum and in a pretty large quantity which would explain why there is no real lasting benefits of applying this particular lip balm or any petroleum based balm for that matter. The main problem with Petroleum is that it tends to only mask the problem of dry skin/lips with a barrier of hydration and over time said ingredient can suck out extra moisture from the skin/lips making the problem worse not better.

Maybelline Electro Baby Lips
Maybelline Electro Baby Lips
Maybelline Electro Baby Lips

If you are expecting a new formula from the Maybelline Electro Baby Lips Lip Balms you will be disappointed. Yet if you have simply became bored of the standard Baby Lips line up and what a new scent or tint to add to your collection this will be right up your alley! The Electro Baby Lips line up includes four new shades and fragrances: Berry Blast - on the lips this gives a berry like stain and has a sweet, artificial berry type scent, Oh! Orange - as you can imagine this gives a light orange tint and of course has an orange fragrance. Pink Shock - a bright pink slick of colour with what I make to be a strawberry scent. I'm a little undecided on that aspect. Lastly we have Strike A Rose which apparently has a rose fragrance, mine again rings of Strawberry and offers a light almost coral pink slick of colour. This is the prettiest of the bunch if you ask me. A word of warning please don't be fooled by some Google swatches, the Maybelline Electro Baby Lips are not intensely pigmented. For decent colour pay off you would have to really layer on the balm which would in turn become thick and uncomfortable. 

Maybelline Electro Baby Lips £2.99 each via Superdrug and on a buy one get one half price offer too - link.


Maybelline Electro Baby Lips Review

Maybelline Electro Baby Lips

I'm not going to beat around the bush - Maybelline Baby Lips Lip Balms are only okay. They aren't the worst lip balm out there by any stretch of the imagination but the hype surrounding such brightly colour lip salves is vastly undeserved. I feel exactly the same way about the Maybelline Electro Baby Lips. Sorry Maybelline I do love you, I swear.

Maybelline Electro Baby Lips
Maybelline Electro Baby Lips

What is surprising is just how soft and almost liquid like this seemingly hard balm feels on the lips, I expected such a firm to texture to tug and pull at the lips but it does the opposite it glides on with such ease with a light texture. Maybelline claim that Baby Lips offer 8 hours of hydration and I'm afraid that it is not case it is closer to 2 hours, as long as the balm is on the lips the skin will remain moisturised but once it wears off all the benefits tend to vanish. For a product that costs less than £3 the ingredients are pretty substantial and include vitamin E, aloe, honey, shea butter and in some instances an SPF of 20. However I should mention that all of the Baby Lips contain petroleum and in a pretty large quantity which would explain why there is no real lasting benefits of applying this particular lip balm or any petroleum based balm for that matter. The main problem with Petroleum is that it tends to only mask the problem of dry skin/lips with a barrier of hydration and over time said ingredient can suck out extra moisture from the skin/lips making the problem worse not better.

Maybelline Electro Baby Lips
Maybelline Electro Baby Lips
Maybelline Electro Baby Lips

If you are expecting a new formula from the Maybelline Electro Baby Lips Lip Balms you will be disappointed. Yet if you have simply became bored of the standard Baby Lips line up and what a new scent or tint to add to your collection this will be right up your alley! The Electro Baby Lips line up includes four new shades and fragrances: Berry Blast - on the lips this gives a berry like stain and has a sweet, artificial berry type scent, Oh! Orange - as you can imagine this gives a light orange tint and of course has an orange fragrance. Pink Shock - a bright pink slick of colour with what I make to be a strawberry scent. I'm a little undecided on that aspect. Lastly we have Strike A Rose which apparently has a rose fragrance, mine again rings of Strawberry and offers a light almost coral pink slick of colour. This is the prettiest of the bunch if you ask me. A word of warning please don't be fooled by some Google swatches, the Maybelline Electro Baby Lips are not intensely pigmented. For decent colour pay off you would have to really layer on the balm which would in turn become thick and uncomfortable. 

Maybelline Electro Baby Lips £2.99 each via Superdrug and on a buy one get one half price offer too - link.


Roger and Gallet Gingembre Rouge Eau Fraiche Parfumee Review

If you have been a lifelong fan of Roger and Gallet you may recall or even wear Roger and Gallet Eau de Gingembre which is the brands first ginger ginger inspired fragrance. 2014 sees the brand take such note (Ginger) and create a whole new fragrance - Roger and Gallet Gingembre. The fragrance has been based on a trip to Zanzibar and includes three facets of ginger.

If like myself you don't tend to gravitate towards spice based scents this could be just the change of pace you need. I would describe Roger and Gallet Gingembre Rouge Eau Fraiche Parfumee as a bold fruity floral. It has a certain unexpected kick to it which sets it apart from your typical fruity offerings which crop up year after year and I imagine that is all down to the ginger component. The bottle is also easy on the eye - a stunning pink ombre glass bottle that couldn't be more fitting for the fragrance held within if it tried.
Describing scents on a blog or even paper is difficult and when I often hope that Google have some sort of scratch and sniff technology in the pipeline. Basically forget all the clichés you know to be true of a summer fragrance as Roger and Gallet Gingembre Rouge Eau Fraiche Parfumee does not fit in that mould. It reminds me slightly of Jimmy Choo Exoctic but only slightly. Notes include fresh ginger (of course), juicy mandarin, pomegranate, ginger flower, lychee and lastly crystallised ginger. Three different forms of ginger and yet it is not overtly spicy nor heedy rather I find you notice the red fruit note first, then the mandarin before you even detect the ginger. Basically what I am saying it is not overwhelming in the slightest and is the perfect evening fragrance.
Yeah I still wish there was a way you could sniff your laptop screen.
C'mon Google/Apple help a beauty blogger out. Be a pal!

Oh and the best part Roger and Gallet Gingembre Rouge Eau Fraiche Parfumee costs £16/30ml then get 15% off with the code JULYSUN (you can use this site wide on Feel Unique until midnight) - link.

This post contains a press sample.

Roger and Gallet Gingembre Rouge Eau Fraiche Parfumee Review

Roger and Gallet Gingembre Rouge Eau Fraiche Parfumee Review

If you have been a lifelong fan of Roger and Gallet you may recall or even wear Roger and Gallet Eau de Gingembre which is the brands first ginger ginger inspired fragrance. 2014 sees the brand take such note (Ginger) and create a whole new fragrance - Roger and Gallet Gingembre. The fragrance has been based on a trip to Zanzibar and includes three facets of ginger.

If like myself you don't tend to gravitate towards spice based scents this could be just the change of pace you need. I would describe Roger and Gallet Gingembre Rouge Eau Fraiche Parfumee as a bold fruity floral. It has a certain unexpected kick to it which sets it apart from your typical fruity offerings which crop up year after year and I imagine that is all down to the ginger component. The bottle is also easy on the eye - a stunning pink ombre glass bottle that couldn't be more fitting for the fragrance held within if it tried.
Describing scents on a blog or even paper is difficult and when I often hope that Google have some sort of scratch and sniff technology in the pipeline. Basically forget all the clichés you know to be true of a summer fragrance as Roger and Gallet Gingembre Rouge Eau Fraiche Parfumee does not fit in that mould. It reminds me slightly of Jimmy Choo Exoctic but only slightly. Notes include fresh ginger (of course), juicy mandarin, pomegranate, ginger flower, lychee and lastly crystallised ginger. Three different forms of ginger and yet it is not overtly spicy nor heedy rather I find you notice the red fruit note first, then the mandarin before you even detect the ginger. Basically what I am saying it is not overwhelming in the slightest and is the perfect evening fragrance.
Yeah I still wish there was a way you could sniff your laptop screen.
C'mon Google/Apple help a beauty blogger out. Be a pal!

Oh and the best part Roger and Gallet Gingembre Rouge Eau Fraiche Parfumee costs £16/30ml then get 15% off with the code JULYSUN (you can use this site wide on Feel Unique until midnight) - link.

This post contains a press sample.
Superdrug Glasgow Fort Haul

If you live in Glasgow you may be please to know that in the Glasgow Fort a new Superdrug has opened which is great in size and so clean! Fellow beauty junkies will know the misery of a poorly stocked beauty stand or even worse a counter in which every product has been tampered with. Ladies and gents can we please just test the tester products and leave the rest alone. Please and thank you! Anyway you can't visit a new store and leave empty handed, that just isn't the done thing so here is what I picked up this time around because much like the Terminator I will be back!

Superdrug Glasgow Fort Haul

Garnier Miracle Skin Cream (£8.66 - link) and Garnier Miracle Eye Cream (£8.66 - link)
I'm one of those people that has to try everything new, if a stand says new I simply have to walk over and investigate it. So easily lead! Anyway the Garnier Miracle Skin Care line is fairly new and offer (win,win) that has been developed with micro-pigments which transforms on contact with skin to self-adjust to your skin tone and optically correct signs of ageing. It contains an SPF20 and aims to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and age spots. I will be honest in saying that I didn't really read into much of either product and plopped them into my basket on a whim but both have lovely textures and so far so good but I do fear this is aimed at a more mature skin than mine.

Superdrug Glasgow Fort Haul

Maybelline Electro Baby Lips £2.99 each - link
At the moment in Superdrug all Maybelline products are on a buy one get one half price offer, now is a good time to stock up on essentials or try out those Maybelline products you forever say you will but don't get around to. I first saw the Maybelline Electro Baby Lips in Walmart in Florida last July but decided against purchasing any. Well I've only had to wait a full year for them to hit UK shores and that entire time must like a lost love I've thought what if. Slightly dramatic but I have wanted to try them out for the longest time. Honesty is my policy and with that in mind I do have to declare these are not all that special. They aren't worlds apart from the original Maybelline Baby Lips, if you were hoping for crazy pigmentation, think again! They are sheer. On the plus side they are pretty cheap, great for keeping in a pocket/bag and smell great. I will get swatches up later today for those curious.

Superdrug Glasgow Fort Haul

Maybelline Baby Skin Instant Fatigue Blur in Cool Rose £7.99 (not online yet)
Maybelline have a good few new launches out at the moment and since I am a fan of the original Maybelline Baby Skin I deciced to add this to my hoard. Honestly I don't quite get it. The idea is that it is a primer which blurs imperfections (pores/fine lines) as well as brightening the skin. The illuminating factor I can't disagree with but it lacks the same silky texture as the original Maybelline Baby Skin and as a result isn't a great primer. At the moment I'm still trying to get to grips with this so my full review could be as much as a week away but yeah I'm not blown away by this product.

Superdrug Glasgow Fort Haul

Maybelline Lasting Drama Black Shock Gel Liner £8.99 - link
I have yet to use this - I'm saving it for dinner tonight so I have no real opinions as of yet.
Basically this is the highstreet's dupe for Benefit Benefit Criminally Easy 'They're Real' Push Up Gel Liner. From swatching this in store I can say they are very, very similar. I will obviously find out if it applies in a similar manner and what the wear time is later on this evening but if you do like the idea of the Benefit Criminally Easy 'They're Real' Push Up Gel Liner but not so much the price this could be just the very solution.

Superdrug Glasgow Fort Haul

L'Oreal Color Rich L'Ombre Pure Eyeshadows £5.49 each and oddly not online via Superdrug
I am obsessed with the L'Oreal Color Rich L'Ombre Pure Eyeshadows. Obsessed!
They not only look luxe but they feel incredible on the skin, they have a light but buttery soft texture that melts on to the eyelids, blends with ease. If ever an eyeshadow could be described as dream it is this line. I will share a full review with swatches of my new additions but in essence they remind me of the L'Oreal Infalliable Eyeshadows but in pressed form. If you haven't tried the L'Oreal Color Rich L'Ombre Pure Eyeshadows do it, do it now. Oh and in Superdrug they are currently on a 3 for 2!

Superdrug Glasgow Fort Haul

Rimmel Nude Delight Moisture Renew Lipstick £6.49 - link.
I have wanted this exact shade for quite some while now, okay since I watched Lisa Eldridge apply it to Alexa Chung. The annoying thing about Rimmel Nude Delight Moisture Renew Lipstick is that it seems to be a firm favourite for many resulting in it often being sold out or as I earlier mentioned people treating the new lipsticks as testers. Luckily the new Glasgow Fort Superdrug is well stocked so I managed to snag three, two of my friends also wanted to try this warm nude out too. The formula is beautiful and feels much more luxurious than £6.49. Rimmel can do no wrong in my eyes.

Do you like the look or sound of anything that I have picked up?
Or more importantly (ha!) what have you been digging from the beauty stands on the highstreet lately? I can always go for a little encouragement.

Superdrug Glasgow Fort Haul

Superdrug Glasgow Fort Haul

If you live in Glasgow you may be please to know that in the Glasgow Fort a new Superdrug has opened which is great in size and so clean! Fellow beauty junkies will know the misery of a poorly stocked beauty stand or even worse a counter in which every product has been tampered with. Ladies and gents can we please just test the tester products and leave the rest alone. Please and thank you! Anyway you can't visit a new store and leave empty handed, that just isn't the done thing so here is what I picked up this time around because much like the Terminator I will be back!

Superdrug Glasgow Fort Haul

Garnier Miracle Skin Cream (£8.66 - link) and Garnier Miracle Eye Cream (£8.66 - link)
I'm one of those people that has to try everything new, if a stand says new I simply have to walk over and investigate it. So easily lead! Anyway the Garnier Miracle Skin Care line is fairly new and offer (win,win) that has been developed with micro-pigments which transforms on contact with skin to self-adjust to your skin tone and optically correct signs of ageing. It contains an SPF20 and aims to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and age spots. I will be honest in saying that I didn't really read into much of either product and plopped them into my basket on a whim but both have lovely textures and so far so good but I do fear this is aimed at a more mature skin than mine.

Superdrug Glasgow Fort Haul

Maybelline Electro Baby Lips £2.99 each - link
At the moment in Superdrug all Maybelline products are on a buy one get one half price offer, now is a good time to stock up on essentials or try out those Maybelline products you forever say you will but don't get around to. I first saw the Maybelline Electro Baby Lips in Walmart in Florida last July but decided against purchasing any. Well I've only had to wait a full year for them to hit UK shores and that entire time must like a lost love I've thought what if. Slightly dramatic but I have wanted to try them out for the longest time. Honesty is my policy and with that in mind I do have to declare these are not all that special. They aren't worlds apart from the original Maybelline Baby Lips, if you were hoping for crazy pigmentation, think again! They are sheer. On the plus side they are pretty cheap, great for keeping in a pocket/bag and smell great. I will get swatches up later today for those curious.

Superdrug Glasgow Fort Haul

Maybelline Baby Skin Instant Fatigue Blur in Cool Rose £7.99 (not online yet)
Maybelline have a good few new launches out at the moment and since I am a fan of the original Maybelline Baby Skin I deciced to add this to my hoard. Honestly I don't quite get it. The idea is that it is a primer which blurs imperfections (pores/fine lines) as well as brightening the skin. The illuminating factor I can't disagree with but it lacks the same silky texture as the original Maybelline Baby Skin and as a result isn't a great primer. At the moment I'm still trying to get to grips with this so my full review could be as much as a week away but yeah I'm not blown away by this product.

Superdrug Glasgow Fort Haul

Maybelline Lasting Drama Black Shock Gel Liner £8.99 - link
I have yet to use this - I'm saving it for dinner tonight so I have no real opinions as of yet.
Basically this is the highstreet's dupe for Benefit Benefit Criminally Easy 'They're Real' Push Up Gel Liner. From swatching this in store I can say they are very, very similar. I will obviously find out if it applies in a similar manner and what the wear time is later on this evening but if you do like the idea of the Benefit Criminally Easy 'They're Real' Push Up Gel Liner but not so much the price this could be just the very solution.

Superdrug Glasgow Fort Haul

L'Oreal Color Rich L'Ombre Pure Eyeshadows £5.49 each and oddly not online via Superdrug
I am obsessed with the L'Oreal Color Rich L'Ombre Pure Eyeshadows. Obsessed!
They not only look luxe but they feel incredible on the skin, they have a light but buttery soft texture that melts on to the eyelids, blends with ease. If ever an eyeshadow could be described as dream it is this line. I will share a full review with swatches of my new additions but in essence they remind me of the L'Oreal Infalliable Eyeshadows but in pressed form. If you haven't tried the L'Oreal Color Rich L'Ombre Pure Eyeshadows do it, do it now. Oh and in Superdrug they are currently on a 3 for 2!

Superdrug Glasgow Fort Haul

Rimmel Nude Delight Moisture Renew Lipstick £6.49 - link.
I have wanted this exact shade for quite some while now, okay since I watched Lisa Eldridge apply it to Alexa Chung. The annoying thing about Rimmel Nude Delight Moisture Renew Lipstick is that it seems to be a firm favourite for many resulting in it often being sold out or as I earlier mentioned people treating the new lipsticks as testers. Luckily the new Glasgow Fort Superdrug is well stocked so I managed to snag three, two of my friends also wanted to try this warm nude out too. The formula is beautiful and feels much more luxurious than £6.49. Rimmel can do no wrong in my eyes.

Do you like the look or sound of anything that I have picked up?
Or more importantly (ha!) what have you been digging from the beauty stands on the highstreet lately? I can always go for a little encouragement.

The Daily Beauty Report (30.07.14)

Here is what is happening in the beauty world at the moment...

A pricey new fragrance collection will launch on the 21st of August! "Diana Vreeland Parfums, the fragrance and beauty collection inspired by the personality of the former editor-in-chief of Vogue, has announced its launch into the UK. Exclusively available at Selfridges, the brand, created by Diana's grandson Alexander Vreeland, pays homage to Diana's love of words and passion for colour by infusing those defining elements into each product. The assortment of five Eau de Parfums, each named after a Diana Vreeland quote, include: Extravagance Russe, a blend of rich ambers and rare resins; Absolutely Vital, a composition of Indian sandalwood, Turkish rose and jasmine absolute, with notes of myrrh resin, opoponax resin and nuances of vanilla;Perfectly Marvelous, comprising notes of jasmine absolute, lacquered red sandalwood, pimento, jasmine sambac and cashmere woods;Simply Divine, comprising notes of tuberose, orange flower absolute, jasmine absolute, Indian sandalwood, orris, cashmere woods, tonka beans and musk; and Outrageously Vibrant, a signature of cassis, rose and patchouli."

Are you a fan of EOS lip balms? Well two new fragrances have just launched state side - Vanilla Mint and Coconut Milk. They apparently boast a new formula that is more moisturising than the original. I for one will be looking out for the new EOS Visibly Soft Lip Balms.

Today sees the launch of lots of new GOSH products! "GOSH Cosmetics has announced the launch of new products to its range of cosmetics. New 9 Shades comprises three mirrored compacts, each containing nine shades which can be mixed and matched. The compacts are available in three city-based shade combinations including To enjoy in NewYork (nudes), To have fun with in LA (aqua - pictured above) and To play with in Vegas (brights). The Defining Brow Gel is a colour and gel combined in one wand. The formula shapes, lifts and defines brow hairs while adding a tint of colour. The brow gel is available in three shades including 001 Brown, 002 Brown/Grey and 003 Black.Giant Blush offers a supersize cream-to-powder stick that adds a soft touch of subtle colour in a silky texture that is easy to blend. Available in three shades: 02 Shy, 04 Passion and 06 Pink Parfait. The Double Precision Mascara offers a two-brush tool for long lashes with definition. The large brush adds extreme volume to upper lashes, while the small brush allows for individual definition on the lower lashes."

As a perfume addict this really interests me, it is nice to see more than just your typical shower gel or body lotion scent spin off's! "KENZO Parfums has announced the launch of KENZOKI, a new skincare collection exclusive to feelunique.com. The new range features a selection of cosmetic products for the face and body built around three plants from Asia: white lotus, ginger flower and rice. The plant sap (plant water) is extracted without the use of chemicals and is infused in every formula. The extract is 100% natural and contains a balance of essential oils, trace elements and mineral salts. Key products featured include: Belle de Jour White Lotus Serum, which preserves and protects skin so it can focus on its cellular renewal; Cream With A Sheen, a cream infused with white lotus and pink peony that provides the face with a glowing, unified complexion while refining skin texture; and Milky Rice Body Scrub, containing rice active plant essence, rice wax and rice powder to soften and nourish the skin. Other products in the collection include: Belle De Jour Angel Eyes, Belle De Jour For A Face In Heaven, Belle De Jour White Lotus Mask, Gentle Cleansing Lotus Mousse, Moisturising Skin Guardian, Cosmic Cosmetic Cream, Ice Cold Eye Cream, Vital Ice Cream, Perfumed Beneficial Water, Bare Body Night Cream and Barefeet Fantasy."

I have already blogged about the following bronzers here - link but here is a little more information. They will launch on the 6th of August and cost £7.99 via Boots. "Cosmetic brand Bourjois has announced the launch of two new versions of its Délice de Poudre bronzer. The new Délice de Poudre Duo, offering a bronzing powder and highlighter, features a deep chocolate matte shade that provides the face with a natural tan while contouring, while the white chocolate illuminating shade instantly adds highlights to complexions, sculpting facial features. New Délice de Poudre Gold Bronzing Powder is designed for the cheekbones and décolleté, featuring subtle golden highlights and fine golden pearly extracts. Each version has the chocolate fragrance of the original."

It wouldn't be a daily update from me without at least one mention of a Christmas product haha! I'm not even sorry! "Skincare brand STEAMCREAM has announced the launch of Bright New Star, a new gift for Christmas, containing a 35ml tin filled with the brand's renowned moisturiser. The product softens, calms and restores vitality for radiant skin. Suitable for all skin types, steamed nutrient rich ingredients absorb instantly and nourish skin at a deeper level." This will launch this coming November via Sefridges, ASOS and Debenhams and cost £7.95.

Have a lovely evening!

The Daily Beauty Report (30.07.14)

The Daily Beauty Report (30.07.14)

Here is what is happening in the beauty world at the moment...

A pricey new fragrance collection will launch on the 21st of August! "Diana Vreeland Parfums, the fragrance and beauty collection inspired by the personality of the former editor-in-chief of Vogue, has announced its launch into the UK. Exclusively available at Selfridges, the brand, created by Diana's grandson Alexander Vreeland, pays homage to Diana's love of words and passion for colour by infusing those defining elements into each product. The assortment of five Eau de Parfums, each named after a Diana Vreeland quote, include: Extravagance Russe, a blend of rich ambers and rare resins; Absolutely Vital, a composition of Indian sandalwood, Turkish rose and jasmine absolute, with notes of myrrh resin, opoponax resin and nuances of vanilla;Perfectly Marvelous, comprising notes of jasmine absolute, lacquered red sandalwood, pimento, jasmine sambac and cashmere woods;Simply Divine, comprising notes of tuberose, orange flower absolute, jasmine absolute, Indian sandalwood, orris, cashmere woods, tonka beans and musk; and Outrageously Vibrant, a signature of cassis, rose and patchouli."

Are you a fan of EOS lip balms? Well two new fragrances have just launched state side - Vanilla Mint and Coconut Milk. They apparently boast a new formula that is more moisturising than the original. I for one will be looking out for the new EOS Visibly Soft Lip Balms.

Today sees the launch of lots of new GOSH products! "GOSH Cosmetics has announced the launch of new products to its range of cosmetics. New 9 Shades comprises three mirrored compacts, each containing nine shades which can be mixed and matched. The compacts are available in three city-based shade combinations including To enjoy in NewYork (nudes), To have fun with in LA (aqua - pictured above) and To play with in Vegas (brights). The Defining Brow Gel is a colour and gel combined in one wand. The formula shapes, lifts and defines brow hairs while adding a tint of colour. The brow gel is available in three shades including 001 Brown, 002 Brown/Grey and 003 Black.Giant Blush offers a supersize cream-to-powder stick that adds a soft touch of subtle colour in a silky texture that is easy to blend. Available in three shades: 02 Shy, 04 Passion and 06 Pink Parfait. The Double Precision Mascara offers a two-brush tool for long lashes with definition. The large brush adds extreme volume to upper lashes, while the small brush allows for individual definition on the lower lashes."

As a perfume addict this really interests me, it is nice to see more than just your typical shower gel or body lotion scent spin off's! "KENZO Parfums has announced the launch of KENZOKI, a new skincare collection exclusive to feelunique.com. The new range features a selection of cosmetic products for the face and body built around three plants from Asia: white lotus, ginger flower and rice. The plant sap (plant water) is extracted without the use of chemicals and is infused in every formula. The extract is 100% natural and contains a balance of essential oils, trace elements and mineral salts. Key products featured include: Belle de Jour White Lotus Serum, which preserves and protects skin so it can focus on its cellular renewal; Cream With A Sheen, a cream infused with white lotus and pink peony that provides the face with a glowing, unified complexion while refining skin texture; and Milky Rice Body Scrub, containing rice active plant essence, rice wax and rice powder to soften and nourish the skin. Other products in the collection include: Belle De Jour Angel Eyes, Belle De Jour For A Face In Heaven, Belle De Jour White Lotus Mask, Gentle Cleansing Lotus Mousse, Moisturising Skin Guardian, Cosmic Cosmetic Cream, Ice Cold Eye Cream, Vital Ice Cream, Perfumed Beneficial Water, Bare Body Night Cream and Barefeet Fantasy."

I have already blogged about the following bronzers here - link but here is a little more information. They will launch on the 6th of August and cost £7.99 via Boots. "Cosmetic brand Bourjois has announced the launch of two new versions of its Délice de Poudre bronzer. The new Délice de Poudre Duo, offering a bronzing powder and highlighter, features a deep chocolate matte shade that provides the face with a natural tan while contouring, while the white chocolate illuminating shade instantly adds highlights to complexions, sculpting facial features. New Délice de Poudre Gold Bronzing Powder is designed for the cheekbones and décolleté, featuring subtle golden highlights and fine golden pearly extracts. Each version has the chocolate fragrance of the original."

It wouldn't be a daily update from me without at least one mention of a Christmas product haha! I'm not even sorry! "Skincare brand STEAMCREAM has announced the launch of Bright New Star, a new gift for Christmas, containing a 35ml tin filled with the brand's renowned moisturiser. The product softens, calms and restores vitality for radiant skin. Suitable for all skin types, steamed nutrient rich ingredients absorb instantly and nourish skin at a deeper level." This will launch this coming November via Sefridges, ASOS and Debenhams and cost £7.95.

Have a lovely evening!
Philosophy Miracle Worker Overnight Moisturiser

Isn't it funny that you spend all your childhood and teenage years wishing to be older and more mature then you hit your mid-twenties and begin to worry about ageing. Who said life was fair?
Now I realise I still technically have young skin which is line free (thank you Mama for the oily skin and round face) which may not make me the ideal candidate to test out anti-ageing products such as the new Philosophy Miracle Worker Overnight Moisturiser. Trust me I always take this on board but I do know a great cream when I see it and as it delivers in so many other levels I simply couldn't resist publishing my thoughts!

So here is the official low down (with a little extra info because I'm cool like that). Philosophy Miracle Worker Overnight Moisturiser has been created to work overnight - it contains targets age-accelerating proteins and helps reset the age of skin thus making it appear younger. Key ingredients include: an age-resetting complex of rare marine algae extract (antioxidant can repair damaged and stressed skin), to trigger the self-destruction of progerin (a damaging protein toxins that can cause the skin to age); peptides (plump and lift the skin), which work together with vitamin C (brightens), helping to support natural collagen; and hydrators to lock in moisture. 

For most of us the above will go over our heads and hey that is okay but kudos to you if you do understand the science of skincare. Basically Philosophy Miracle Worker Overnight Moisturiser is a repairing night cream in laymen's terms. It sets to work each night to gently restore the skin repairing any existing damage as well as protecting the skin from future concerns. It is quite clever. Okay I don't have any lines that need plumping as of yet but I live by the rule prevention is better than a cure. Philosophy Miracle Worker Overnight Moisturiser has a lovely, thick almost whipped cream like texture which is highly hydrating yet not overwhelming for oily skin types. It softens and oddly leaves my skin feeling really plump, it is non-greasy and feels comfortable on the skin. More importantly it doesn't break out my sensitive skin and works really well with my night time serum. Don't judge but I often skip night cream as I feel most sit on the surface of my skin rather than absorb instantly. The almost mousse like texture of Philosophy Miracle Worker Overnight Moisturiser means this is a problem of the past and my skin can now get some much needed night time nourishment to ward of premature ageing.

The great thing about Philosophy Miracle Worker Overnight Moisturiser is that it can be used by more mature skin types to wind back the years or younger skins as a preventive measure. Pretty cool huh?

Philosophy Miracle Worker Overnight Moisturiser £44/60ml via Debenhams - link.

This post contains a press sample.


New Philosophy Miracle Worker Overnight Moisturiser Review

Philosophy Miracle Worker Overnight Moisturiser

Isn't it funny that you spend all your childhood and teenage years wishing to be older and more mature then you hit your mid-twenties and begin to worry about ageing. Who said life was fair?
Now I realise I still technically have young skin which is line free (thank you Mama for the oily skin and round face) which may not make me the ideal candidate to test out anti-ageing products such as the new Philosophy Miracle Worker Overnight Moisturiser. Trust me I always take this on board but I do know a great cream when I see it and as it delivers in so many other levels I simply couldn't resist publishing my thoughts!

So here is the official low down (with a little extra info because I'm cool like that). Philosophy Miracle Worker Overnight Moisturiser has been created to work overnight - it contains targets age-accelerating proteins and helps reset the age of skin thus making it appear younger. Key ingredients include: an age-resetting complex of rare marine algae extract (antioxidant can repair damaged and stressed skin), to trigger the self-destruction of progerin (a damaging protein toxins that can cause the skin to age); peptides (plump and lift the skin), which work together with vitamin C (brightens), helping to support natural collagen; and hydrators to lock in moisture. 

For most of us the above will go over our heads and hey that is okay but kudos to you if you do understand the science of skincare. Basically Philosophy Miracle Worker Overnight Moisturiser is a repairing night cream in laymen's terms. It sets to work each night to gently restore the skin repairing any existing damage as well as protecting the skin from future concerns. It is quite clever. Okay I don't have any lines that need plumping as of yet but I live by the rule prevention is better than a cure. Philosophy Miracle Worker Overnight Moisturiser has a lovely, thick almost whipped cream like texture which is highly hydrating yet not overwhelming for oily skin types. It softens and oddly leaves my skin feeling really plump, it is non-greasy and feels comfortable on the skin. More importantly it doesn't break out my sensitive skin and works really well with my night time serum. Don't judge but I often skip night cream as I feel most sit on the surface of my skin rather than absorb instantly. The almost mousse like texture of Philosophy Miracle Worker Overnight Moisturiser means this is a problem of the past and my skin can now get some much needed night time nourishment to ward of premature ageing.

The great thing about Philosophy Miracle Worker Overnight Moisturiser is that it can be used by more mature skin types to wind back the years or younger skins as a preventive measure. Pretty cool huh?

Philosophy Miracle Worker Overnight Moisturiser £44/60ml via Debenhams - link.

This post contains a press sample.


Does A Budget Matter - The Bronzers Edition

Leading on from yesterday's post on three eye creams - link, I pit three bronzers up against one and other to decide if price really should be a deciding factor. Basically do you get what you pay for? Oddly as far as eye creams where concerned the answer was no with the cheapest option coming out on top. Today is a very different story but just as before we have three different price tags: under £5, under £10 and under £20. Let's see what has came out the overall winner shall we?

Does A Budget Matter - The Bronzers Edition
Does A Budget Matter - The Bronzers Edition

Under £5 - Miss Sporty Ohh! Tan So Fine Bronzing Powder in Blonde £2.99 via Boots - link.

For £2.99 you don't just get a sizeable bronzer but also a highlighting powder which leads me to believe that this has been created to contour and highlight? Sadly I can't see this being the case for many of us. First of all despite being the lightest colour option within the Miss Sporty Ohh! Tan So Fine Bronzing Powder line the blonde bronzer is very, very orange. The texture is very powdery meaning it is difficult to blend out and apply as it produces substantial product fall out. The colour is bizarre and I'm struggling to think of any skin tone that this will look sun kissed on also due to the glitter, colour aside it isn't really suitable for contouring. The highlighting powder isn't much better either, very powder (same application woes), very stark and a nightmare to blend out. I very seldom say this but avoid this bronzer line at all costs. Yes it may be cheap but really there are far better options out there costing around the same price i.e Rimmel Sunshimmer et al.
Overall score 2/10 and that is purely because I'd like to see more bronzing/highlighting duos.

Does A Budget Matter - The Bronzers Edition
Does A Budget Matter - The Bronzers Edition

Under £10 - Bourjois Maxi Delight Bronzer £8.99 via Boots - link.

I fully understand that not all of us purely use bronzer to contour, some like to use it to warm the skin and that goes beyond the face. If you fall into that category Bourjois Maxi Delight Bronzer is the bronzer for you. This huge bronzing powder will last you forever and a day and has a natural, almost olive undertone that can help even out the skin tone i.e tan lines. Personally I like a do it all bronzer which this is not due to the fine, golden glitter element. On the face it does brighten and add a certain luminosity without being too obvious. However this does mean it doesn't make a great contour product which I feel lets it down. If you are lugging around a huge pan of product you want it to be an all doing, all singing product. That aside it applies beautifully,has great pigmentation, doesn't have any product fall out issues and is really long wearing making it perfect for the summer weather.
Overall score 7/10, had it been matte it would be closer to the 9 mark!

Does A Budget Matter - The Bronzers Edition
Does A Budget Matter - The Bronzers Edition

Under £20 - The Balm Bahama Mama Bronzing Powder £13.50 via Feel Unique - link.

Ladies and gentlemen say hello to your new best friend when it comes to contouring!
If you have a light to medium skin tone you need this. As you may know the best way to contour those pesky cheekbones is to find a slightly grey toned bronzing powder to mimic natural shadows. Well The Balm Bahama Mama Bronzing Powder has to be the perfect colour to do this and this is coming from a long time fan of NARS Laguna. Bahama Mama is beautifully formulated, completely matte that has great levels of colour pay off yet can be sheered out with such ease. If ever there was a product to make you realise just how wonderful The Balm is, it is this bronzer. However I do have to be fair and much like the above Bourjois Maxi Delight Bronzer this is not a do it all product. If used to warm the skin it looks bizarre, muddy even and is best used as either a contor product or eyeshadow.
Overall score 8/10, it ranks slightly higher than Bourjois Maxi Delight Bronzer due to the formula.

In this instance price does seem to reflect the quality of product, it seems (past experiences included) that if you want a natural looking bronzing powder you do have to pay a little more.
You can find discount codes for some of the products mentioned above here - link.

Disclaimer - This was a collaborative post, all content was written by myself.
Voucher codes supplied the products with no monetary gain.








Does A Budget Matter - The Bronzers Edition

Does A Budget Matter - The Bronzers Edition

Leading on from yesterday's post on three eye creams - link, I pit three bronzers up against one and other to decide if price really should be a deciding factor. Basically do you get what you pay for? Oddly as far as eye creams where concerned the answer was no with the cheapest option coming out on top. Today is a very different story but just as before we have three different price tags: under £5, under £10 and under £20. Let's see what has came out the overall winner shall we?

Does A Budget Matter - The Bronzers Edition
Does A Budget Matter - The Bronzers Edition

Under £5 - Miss Sporty Ohh! Tan So Fine Bronzing Powder in Blonde £2.99 via Boots - link.

For £2.99 you don't just get a sizeable bronzer but also a highlighting powder which leads me to believe that this has been created to contour and highlight? Sadly I can't see this being the case for many of us. First of all despite being the lightest colour option within the Miss Sporty Ohh! Tan So Fine Bronzing Powder line the blonde bronzer is very, very orange. The texture is very powdery meaning it is difficult to blend out and apply as it produces substantial product fall out. The colour is bizarre and I'm struggling to think of any skin tone that this will look sun kissed on also due to the glitter, colour aside it isn't really suitable for contouring. The highlighting powder isn't much better either, very powder (same application woes), very stark and a nightmare to blend out. I very seldom say this but avoid this bronzer line at all costs. Yes it may be cheap but really there are far better options out there costing around the same price i.e Rimmel Sunshimmer et al.
Overall score 2/10 and that is purely because I'd like to see more bronzing/highlighting duos.

Does A Budget Matter - The Bronzers Edition
Does A Budget Matter - The Bronzers Edition

Under £10 - Bourjois Maxi Delight Bronzer £8.99 via Boots - link.

I fully understand that not all of us purely use bronzer to contour, some like to use it to warm the skin and that goes beyond the face. If you fall into that category Bourjois Maxi Delight Bronzer is the bronzer for you. This huge bronzing powder will last you forever and a day and has a natural, almost olive undertone that can help even out the skin tone i.e tan lines. Personally I like a do it all bronzer which this is not due to the fine, golden glitter element. On the face it does brighten and add a certain luminosity without being too obvious. However this does mean it doesn't make a great contour product which I feel lets it down. If you are lugging around a huge pan of product you want it to be an all doing, all singing product. That aside it applies beautifully,has great pigmentation, doesn't have any product fall out issues and is really long wearing making it perfect for the summer weather.
Overall score 7/10, had it been matte it would be closer to the 9 mark!

Does A Budget Matter - The Bronzers Edition
Does A Budget Matter - The Bronzers Edition

Under £20 - The Balm Bahama Mama Bronzing Powder £13.50 via Feel Unique - link.

Ladies and gentlemen say hello to your new best friend when it comes to contouring!
If you have a light to medium skin tone you need this. As you may know the best way to contour those pesky cheekbones is to find a slightly grey toned bronzing powder to mimic natural shadows. Well The Balm Bahama Mama Bronzing Powder has to be the perfect colour to do this and this is coming from a long time fan of NARS Laguna. Bahama Mama is beautifully formulated, completely matte that has great levels of colour pay off yet can be sheered out with such ease. If ever there was a product to make you realise just how wonderful The Balm is, it is this bronzer. However I do have to be fair and much like the above Bourjois Maxi Delight Bronzer this is not a do it all product. If used to warm the skin it looks bizarre, muddy even and is best used as either a contor product or eyeshadow.
Overall score 8/10, it ranks slightly higher than Bourjois Maxi Delight Bronzer due to the formula.

In this instance price does seem to reflect the quality of product, it seems (past experiences included) that if you want a natural looking bronzing powder you do have to pay a little more.
You can find discount codes for some of the products mentioned above here - link.

Disclaimer - This was a collaborative post, all content was written by myself.
Voucher codes supplied the products with no monetary gain.








Julien Farel Vitamin Restore Review

Julien Farel Vitamin Restore is a weekly (or whenever you see fit) treatment that replaces shampoo and conditioner on the day of use. It has been created to be anti-ageing but don't let that sway you, I'm in my twenties and have used it once a week for the last few weeks and have noticed a difference. I wash my hair for the sake of it, I don't live in London where pollution is high - I live in a leafy suburb, don't smoke and unless I go to the gym don't really do anything all that strenuous but I do like to feel clean and that includes my hair. Does my hair need washed daily? Nope but I do it regardless. A little worried that I may be stripping my hair of natural oils I ventured into the whole co-washing (using conditioner in place of shampoo) world and wasn't blown away. In my opinion conditioner alone won't remove product build up or daily grime. I'm sure some of the cleansing conditioners do an okay job but for me I need something a little more, enter Julien Farel Vitamin Restore.

Julien Farel Vitamin Restore is a lot more than your typical co-wash product, it contains Hyaluronic Acid, Resveratrol and Bioflavonoids which have been proven to renew cells more quickly and nourish the hair (follicles to ends), and thus can extend your hair's growth cycle. In essence this means your hair is less likely to shed and could help you keep the hair you have longer - perfect for those looking to grow or thicken their hair. Julien Farel Vitamin Restore has been created especially for colour and chemically treated hair so that it is gentle for fragile hair and can help to prolong artificial colour.It contains vitamins B, C and E to lock in moisture and provide antioxidant protection but for most (myself included) that is just jargon. Does it work is what we really want to know!

Yes it does. It is perfect to give the hair a break from stripping shampoos and heavy conditioners and yet your hair and scalp will feel cleansed. I have long, thick hair and don't always deem treatment products to be enough in terms of moisture and yet I can use this once a week and combined with a little leave in conditioner to comb out knots my hair feels just how it does after a deep conditioner. I also think this would be perfect for fine hair as it doesn't weigh the hair down yet you do reap the benefits of both hydration and added vitamins. I am trying to grow my hair another few inches but find that come the summer months my hair growth slows down and shedding sets in thick and fast. Fingers crossed this will at least slow the stray hairs from falling. Look out for an update in a few months!

Julien Farel Vitamin Restore £28/250ml via Selfridges - link.

This post contains a press sample.

The Future of Co-Washing - Julien Farel Vitamin Restore Review

Julien Farel Vitamin Restore Review

Julien Farel Vitamin Restore is a weekly (or whenever you see fit) treatment that replaces shampoo and conditioner on the day of use. It has been created to be anti-ageing but don't let that sway you, I'm in my twenties and have used it once a week for the last few weeks and have noticed a difference. I wash my hair for the sake of it, I don't live in London where pollution is high - I live in a leafy suburb, don't smoke and unless I go to the gym don't really do anything all that strenuous but I do like to feel clean and that includes my hair. Does my hair need washed daily? Nope but I do it regardless. A little worried that I may be stripping my hair of natural oils I ventured into the whole co-washing (using conditioner in place of shampoo) world and wasn't blown away. In my opinion conditioner alone won't remove product build up or daily grime. I'm sure some of the cleansing conditioners do an okay job but for me I need something a little more, enter Julien Farel Vitamin Restore.

Julien Farel Vitamin Restore is a lot more than your typical co-wash product, it contains Hyaluronic Acid, Resveratrol and Bioflavonoids which have been proven to renew cells more quickly and nourish the hair (follicles to ends), and thus can extend your hair's growth cycle. In essence this means your hair is less likely to shed and could help you keep the hair you have longer - perfect for those looking to grow or thicken their hair. Julien Farel Vitamin Restore has been created especially for colour and chemically treated hair so that it is gentle for fragile hair and can help to prolong artificial colour.It contains vitamins B, C and E to lock in moisture and provide antioxidant protection but for most (myself included) that is just jargon. Does it work is what we really want to know!

Yes it does. It is perfect to give the hair a break from stripping shampoos and heavy conditioners and yet your hair and scalp will feel cleansed. I have long, thick hair and don't always deem treatment products to be enough in terms of moisture and yet I can use this once a week and combined with a little leave in conditioner to comb out knots my hair feels just how it does after a deep conditioner. I also think this would be perfect for fine hair as it doesn't weigh the hair down yet you do reap the benefits of both hydration and added vitamins. I am trying to grow my hair another few inches but find that come the summer months my hair growth slows down and shedding sets in thick and fast. Fingers crossed this will at least slow the stray hairs from falling. Look out for an update in a few months!

Julien Farel Vitamin Restore £28/250ml via Selfridges - link.

This post contains a press sample.
Cocoa Brown One Hour Tan Review

Self tanning brands come and go and only the truly great have lasted the test of time - St.Tropez, Fake Bake, HeShi and I truly think Cocoa Brown will join that line up, if it hasn't already for some.
For years and I mean years I religiously slathered myself in St.Tropez Self Tanning Mousse and will contest it is still a firm favourite but at close to £23 a bottle it was a pricey habit. Only recently did I cave and try Cocoa Brown One Hour Tan after reading several glowing reviews and seeing before and after photos on Instagram. At £7.99 a can I thought what did I have to loose and the answer is nothing.

Cocoa Brown One Hour Tan is a light tinted mousse that is a dream to apply, it has a great creamy consistency so it spreads really easily over the skin and doesn't seep through the tanning mitt - if you have ever stained your palms self tanning you'll understand the importance of this! The mousse is tinted so you can see where you have applied which should help you create an even tan. Some mousse self tannings can be a little drying on the skin but despite being quick to dry my skin doesn't feel any less or more dry in texture than usual. As the name suggests Cocoa Brown One Hour Tan - this is a quick to develop self tanner, you should have a light golden glow after an hour. I tend to leave it on overnight for a deeper colour. I will be honest in saying that despite Cocoa Brown's no typical self tanning scent claims this does indeed leave behind a warm, almost biscuit like fragrance.
Once washed off that quickly disappears.

Obviously the end colour will not just depend on how long you leave the mousse to develop but also your natural skin tone but it will deepen your skin by at least two shades. It doesn't ring orange but rather a lovely natural bronze that if taken proper care or (daily exfoliation and moistursing) it should last you a good five days with ease. At well under £10 a can I can see how this has quickly become a staple tanning product for so many.

At the moment Cocoa Brown One Hour Tan is on offer for £5.32 via Superdrug - link.

This post contains a press sample.

Cocoa Brown One Hour Tan Review - Believe The Hype

Cocoa Brown One Hour Tan Review

Self tanning brands come and go and only the truly great have lasted the test of time - St.Tropez, Fake Bake, HeShi and I truly think Cocoa Brown will join that line up, if it hasn't already for some.
For years and I mean years I religiously slathered myself in St.Tropez Self Tanning Mousse and will contest it is still a firm favourite but at close to £23 a bottle it was a pricey habit. Only recently did I cave and try Cocoa Brown One Hour Tan after reading several glowing reviews and seeing before and after photos on Instagram. At £7.99 a can I thought what did I have to loose and the answer is nothing.

Cocoa Brown One Hour Tan is a light tinted mousse that is a dream to apply, it has a great creamy consistency so it spreads really easily over the skin and doesn't seep through the tanning mitt - if you have ever stained your palms self tanning you'll understand the importance of this! The mousse is tinted so you can see where you have applied which should help you create an even tan. Some mousse self tannings can be a little drying on the skin but despite being quick to dry my skin doesn't feel any less or more dry in texture than usual. As the name suggests Cocoa Brown One Hour Tan - this is a quick to develop self tanner, you should have a light golden glow after an hour. I tend to leave it on overnight for a deeper colour. I will be honest in saying that despite Cocoa Brown's no typical self tanning scent claims this does indeed leave behind a warm, almost biscuit like fragrance.
Once washed off that quickly disappears.

Obviously the end colour will not just depend on how long you leave the mousse to develop but also your natural skin tone but it will deepen your skin by at least two shades. It doesn't ring orange but rather a lovely natural bronze that if taken proper care or (daily exfoliation and moistursing) it should last you a good five days with ease. At well under £10 a can I can see how this has quickly become a staple tanning product for so many.

At the moment Cocoa Brown One Hour Tan is on offer for £5.32 via Superdrug - link.

This post contains a press sample.

Narciso Rodriguez Narciso EDP

Here is what is happening in the beauty world at the moment...

On the 3rd of September we have a new foundation to look forward to, the only downside is that it will cost £41 "Guerlain has announced the launch of Lingerie de Peau Compact Foundation. Combining a bare skin effect with a travel-friendly formula, the silky smooth texture offers a subtly powdery finish, while maintaining skin's moisture levels. Containing Bio-Fusion Micro-Mesh and natural polymers, the foundation achieves a supple and elastic stretch which expands to embrace the contours of the face and ensure radiant coverage."

One for fans of organic brands "Pravera, a natural and organic skincare and cosmetics distributor, has announced the launch of its own personal care brand, ORGANII. The new brand specialises in a comprehensive range of 19 products, comprising six certified organic Hand Soaps, four Liquid Soaps, six Shower Gels and three different Plasters. The soap and shower products come in a variety of fruity and floral fragrances, ranging from Lavender and Citrus to Liquorice and Strawberry. In addition, there is also a fragrance-free Soap Bar and Liquid Soap available in the range. The ORGANii plasters are completely unique and made from organic cotton and contain a natural adhesive, making it ideal for people with hypersensitive skin. "

Be still my beating heart! "Narciso Rodriguez Parfums has announced the launch of its latest fragrance, NARCISO. The new scent embraces a modern femininity that's both assertive and elusive, illuminating the universal magic of seduction and attraction. The fragrance comprises notes of vetiver, white and dark cedars, gardenia, Bulgarian rose, musk and amber. The bottle represents a simple glass cube with a soft sculpted half-oval, made of stone-white lacquer, sitting inside. The NARCISO fragrance is accompanied by a Muscle Oil and Body Lotion of the same scent!"


Gah I love Christmas and no not for the gifts but let's be honest it is nice to give! "Aromatherapy Associates and The Refinery have announced the launch of their Christmas collection. Presented in shades of teal green and decorated with illustrations inspired by the ingredients, key products in the range include: The Star, a 7.5ml bottle of Inner Strength Bath & Shower Oil (10% of proceeds are donated to Defence Against Cancer);Instant Inner Strength Roller Ball in a sleek, compact container;Relaxing Bathing Box, containing Relax Body Wash, Deep Relax, Light Relax and De-Stress Mind Bath & Shower Oils; Bath Jewels, a triangular box comprising a trio of 7.5ml Deep Relax, De-Stress Mind and Revive Morning Bath & Shower Oils; Radiant Rose Box, offering Support Equilibrium Bath & Shower Oil, Renewing Rose Body Wash and Renewing Rose Body Cream; Ultimate Bath Jewels, the entire collection of 10 Bath & Shower Oils and the multi-wick Joy Candle; and The Refinery Essential Kit, including the Refinery Face Wash and Refinery Revitalising Moisturiser."


If you like mineral make-up this may be music to your ears...I'm so terrible for puns. Sorry! "Ashley Roberts has been announced the new face of cosmetic brand Sheer Cover Studio. The brand specialises in high-performance mineral make-up with an exclusive, patented formula that is designed to adapt with light, providing the wearer with a perfect colour match. From the makers of Sheer Cover, the professional mineral make-up range, Sheer Cover Studio™ collection uses Trueshade Technology; developed to automatically adjust to match every skin tone without the need for blending. Originally developed to help patients conceal skin issues such as redness, dark circles, age spots, hyper-pigmentation, uneven skin tone, melasma, acne, rosacea, birthmarks and spider veins, the brand offers long wearing coverage for the face and shimmering colour for eyes, lips and cheeks; while working with the skin’s natural oils so that flaws and blemishes are easily concealed."

Aren't these little hair ties beyond cute! I know Summer has only just begun but I can't help but think they would be perfect for School/Collage? "Hair accessories brand Kitsch has announced the launch of a new collection of slogan hair ties. The brand offers hair ties that are designed to not only be used on the hair, but also on wrist; featuring vibrant colours and unique textures that can be worn alone, stacked or layered. Using super soft, durable elastic, the ties do not bend, crease or get tangled in the hair." They will launch in September and cost £4 per pack!
Have a lovely evening everyone!

The Daily Beauty Report (29.07.14)

Narciso Rodriguez Narciso EDP

Here is what is happening in the beauty world at the moment...

On the 3rd of September we have a new foundation to look forward to, the only downside is that it will cost £41 "Guerlain has announced the launch of Lingerie de Peau Compact Foundation. Combining a bare skin effect with a travel-friendly formula, the silky smooth texture offers a subtly powdery finish, while maintaining skin's moisture levels. Containing Bio-Fusion Micro-Mesh and natural polymers, the foundation achieves a supple and elastic stretch which expands to embrace the contours of the face and ensure radiant coverage."

One for fans of organic brands "Pravera, a natural and organic skincare and cosmetics distributor, has announced the launch of its own personal care brand, ORGANII. The new brand specialises in a comprehensive range of 19 products, comprising six certified organic Hand Soaps, four Liquid Soaps, six Shower Gels and three different Plasters. The soap and shower products come in a variety of fruity and floral fragrances, ranging from Lavender and Citrus to Liquorice and Strawberry. In addition, there is also a fragrance-free Soap Bar and Liquid Soap available in the range. The ORGANii plasters are completely unique and made from organic cotton and contain a natural adhesive, making it ideal for people with hypersensitive skin. "

Be still my beating heart! "Narciso Rodriguez Parfums has announced the launch of its latest fragrance, NARCISO. The new scent embraces a modern femininity that's both assertive and elusive, illuminating the universal magic of seduction and attraction. The fragrance comprises notes of vetiver, white and dark cedars, gardenia, Bulgarian rose, musk and amber. The bottle represents a simple glass cube with a soft sculpted half-oval, made of stone-white lacquer, sitting inside. The NARCISO fragrance is accompanied by a Muscle Oil and Body Lotion of the same scent!"


Gah I love Christmas and no not for the gifts but let's be honest it is nice to give! "Aromatherapy Associates and The Refinery have announced the launch of their Christmas collection. Presented in shades of teal green and decorated with illustrations inspired by the ingredients, key products in the range include: The Star, a 7.5ml bottle of Inner Strength Bath & Shower Oil (10% of proceeds are donated to Defence Against Cancer);Instant Inner Strength Roller Ball in a sleek, compact container;Relaxing Bathing Box, containing Relax Body Wash, Deep Relax, Light Relax and De-Stress Mind Bath & Shower Oils; Bath Jewels, a triangular box comprising a trio of 7.5ml Deep Relax, De-Stress Mind and Revive Morning Bath & Shower Oils; Radiant Rose Box, offering Support Equilibrium Bath & Shower Oil, Renewing Rose Body Wash and Renewing Rose Body Cream; Ultimate Bath Jewels, the entire collection of 10 Bath & Shower Oils and the multi-wick Joy Candle; and The Refinery Essential Kit, including the Refinery Face Wash and Refinery Revitalising Moisturiser."


If you like mineral make-up this may be music to your ears...I'm so terrible for puns. Sorry! "Ashley Roberts has been announced the new face of cosmetic brand Sheer Cover Studio. The brand specialises in high-performance mineral make-up with an exclusive, patented formula that is designed to adapt with light, providing the wearer with a perfect colour match. From the makers of Sheer Cover, the professional mineral make-up range, Sheer Cover Studio™ collection uses Trueshade Technology; developed to automatically adjust to match every skin tone without the need for blending. Originally developed to help patients conceal skin issues such as redness, dark circles, age spots, hyper-pigmentation, uneven skin tone, melasma, acne, rosacea, birthmarks and spider veins, the brand offers long wearing coverage for the face and shimmering colour for eyes, lips and cheeks; while working with the skin’s natural oils so that flaws and blemishes are easily concealed."

Aren't these little hair ties beyond cute! I know Summer has only just begun but I can't help but think they would be perfect for School/Collage? "Hair accessories brand Kitsch has announced the launch of a new collection of slogan hair ties. The brand offers hair ties that are designed to not only be used on the hair, but also on wrist; featuring vibrant colours and unique textures that can be worn alone, stacked or layered. Using super soft, durable elastic, the ties do not bend, crease or get tangled in the hair." They will launch in September and cost £4 per pack!
Have a lovely evening everyone!
MAC The Simpsons Marge Simpson Collection - Colour Story

MAC I love you. No I really do. Ask anyone I am real MAC girl but man this collection has let me down. I grew up watching The Simpsons and still chuckle at the odd episode or two and really expected big things from the MAC Marge Simpson Collection. I hoped for a lipstick or two, solo eyeshadows and generally a little more than what is on offer but hey this is just me! Here is what is in store for us when the MAC The Simpsons Collection touches down this coming September!

MAC The Simpsons Marge Simpson Collection - Colour Story

Lipglasses
Nacho Cheese Explosion - Lime yellow
Grand Pumpkin - Bright coral
Red Blazer - Bright fuchsia
Itchy & Scratchy & Sexy - Blue violet
 
That Trillion Dollar Look Quad
Lisa’s spikes - Lime green (Frost)
Apple squished - Kelly green (Frost)
2 dozen and one greyhounds - Olive green (Veluxe pearl)
Chalkboard dreams - Blackened teal (Velvet) 

Marge’s Extra Ingredients Quad
Harpooned heart - Light pink (Lustre)
Sexy PB & J - Mid-tone violet (Veluxe pearl)
Beehive blue - Mid-tone blue (Veluxe pearl)
Vivacious Vacuum Cleaner Bag - Navy (Frost)

Powder Blush
Pink sprinkles - Light blue pink (Satin)
Side spray - Light peach coral (Satin)

False Eyelashes
7 lash - natural length (Re-promote)

There is also nail wraps which I oddly love but know I will not be able to apply them correctly!

What do we think? A little meh

MAC The Simpsons Marge Simpson Collection - Colour Story

MAC The Simpsons Marge Simpson Collection - Colour Story

MAC I love you. No I really do. Ask anyone I am real MAC girl but man this collection has let me down. I grew up watching The Simpsons and still chuckle at the odd episode or two and really expected big things from the MAC Marge Simpson Collection. I hoped for a lipstick or two, solo eyeshadows and generally a little more than what is on offer but hey this is just me! Here is what is in store for us when the MAC The Simpsons Collection touches down this coming September!

MAC The Simpsons Marge Simpson Collection - Colour Story

Lipglasses
Nacho Cheese Explosion - Lime yellow
Grand Pumpkin - Bright coral
Red Blazer - Bright fuchsia
Itchy & Scratchy & Sexy - Blue violet
 
That Trillion Dollar Look Quad
Lisa’s spikes - Lime green (Frost)
Apple squished - Kelly green (Frost)
2 dozen and one greyhounds - Olive green (Veluxe pearl)
Chalkboard dreams - Blackened teal (Velvet) 

Marge’s Extra Ingredients Quad
Harpooned heart - Light pink (Lustre)
Sexy PB & J - Mid-tone violet (Veluxe pearl)
Beehive blue - Mid-tone blue (Veluxe pearl)
Vivacious Vacuum Cleaner Bag - Navy (Frost)

Powder Blush
Pink sprinkles - Light blue pink (Satin)
Side spray - Light peach coral (Satin)

False Eyelashes
7 lash - natural length (Re-promote)

There is also nail wraps which I oddly love but know I will not be able to apply them correctly!

What do we think? A little meh
#Girlboss by Sophia Amoruso Review

I don't ever want to be a book reviewer (is that even a real thing?). As much as I like to pretend I'm the deep, intellectual, brooding type - the only person I'm fooling is myself. Einstein I am not, why is Albert Einstein the bench mark for genius? Why don't we say Newton I am not or Madam Curie I am not? Anyway I digress one thing I do know is blogging and wither you like it or not blogging has become a business. A big business and I for one constantly look for new ways to better myself as a blogger (not as a person as I'm pretty rad in that aspect...kidding!) and have bought a few books along the way. I'll level most are utter crap, full of half baked philosophies that belong on Pinterest, that site is a different kind of evil. It hooks you in with all its pretty photos and makes you yearn for a craft room and door wreath. I live in a 2 bed flat in Glasgow. Ain't nobody around here got time for that! Basically what I am saying is that a motivational "business" book that isn't a giant cliché is hard to find, let alone enjoy and yet I plodded along nicely with #Girlboss by Sophia Amoruso.

Now don't get me wrong #Girlboss isn't without its faults and it isn't the meatiest when it comes to actual strategies to get you ahead and a lot of it really is common sense applied i.e Sophia Amoruso believes in treating everyone in the workplace nicely - 'cause no-one wants to be the office biatch. Okay I'm paraphrasing a little but just don't be that guy. There are other nuggets of advice such as how to live within your means which is something that struck a chord as I'm sure like many people my age, I live for today (hashtag YOLO! No?). Fun at the time, depressing when you realise that if you don't buck your ideas that mortgage may be further away than you realised. The great thing about #Girlboss is that it reads easy, it has been wrote in a way that it is enjoyable and doesn't feel like a heavy marketing text book. Oh university you were a cruel place and time. 

As a blogger this book really didn't offer all that much to me in terms of advice but what it did do was give me a swift kick up the arse. Get ready to select your pretty font and kitten photo as I am about to deliver a sucker punch of a cliché. Sometimes I do know what I am doing or where I am going with blogging but I do know that I love it and I am one of the few ladies out there who is lucky enough to call it my profession. Crazy! After reading #Girlboss I mentally said to myself that it was time to buck up my ideas, improve and do the things that I have said I would and ultimately haven't. Do I want to be a millionaire? Nah I don't - that is too much responsibility and paying tax on that would end me (sorry HMRC) but I do want to maintain this site and take it on to bigger and better things. Oh and Youtube. Yes Youtube, the top of the to do list. Life is a little manic until October but buggar it come October I am going to sit in front of that camera and let you guys into my life or make-up bag. Potato. Potatoe. Oh and that the only person that can make this happen is me. I believe they call that the double whammy of banal expressions? 

#Girlboss isn't life changing nor will it turn you into Alan Sugar overnight but it might just make you buck up your ideas and realise that ambition is a great driver. Oh get me with the sugary sweet ending. 

You can find #Girlboss by Sophia Amoruso via Amazon for £10.49 - link

#Girlboss

#Girlboss by Sophia Amoruso Review

I don't ever want to be a book reviewer (is that even a real thing?). As much as I like to pretend I'm the deep, intellectual, brooding type - the only person I'm fooling is myself. Einstein I am not, why is Albert Einstein the bench mark for genius? Why don't we say Newton I am not or Madam Curie I am not? Anyway I digress one thing I do know is blogging and wither you like it or not blogging has become a business. A big business and I for one constantly look for new ways to better myself as a blogger (not as a person as I'm pretty rad in that aspect...kidding!) and have bought a few books along the way. I'll level most are utter crap, full of half baked philosophies that belong on Pinterest, that site is a different kind of evil. It hooks you in with all its pretty photos and makes you yearn for a craft room and door wreath. I live in a 2 bed flat in Glasgow. Ain't nobody around here got time for that! Basically what I am saying is that a motivational "business" book that isn't a giant cliché is hard to find, let alone enjoy and yet I plodded along nicely with #Girlboss by Sophia Amoruso.

Now don't get me wrong #Girlboss isn't without its faults and it isn't the meatiest when it comes to actual strategies to get you ahead and a lot of it really is common sense applied i.e Sophia Amoruso believes in treating everyone in the workplace nicely - 'cause no-one wants to be the office biatch. Okay I'm paraphrasing a little but just don't be that guy. There are other nuggets of advice such as how to live within your means which is something that struck a chord as I'm sure like many people my age, I live for today (hashtag YOLO! No?). Fun at the time, depressing when you realise that if you don't buck your ideas that mortgage may be further away than you realised. The great thing about #Girlboss is that it reads easy, it has been wrote in a way that it is enjoyable and doesn't feel like a heavy marketing text book. Oh university you were a cruel place and time. 

As a blogger this book really didn't offer all that much to me in terms of advice but what it did do was give me a swift kick up the arse. Get ready to select your pretty font and kitten photo as I am about to deliver a sucker punch of a cliché. Sometimes I do know what I am doing or where I am going with blogging but I do know that I love it and I am one of the few ladies out there who is lucky enough to call it my profession. Crazy! After reading #Girlboss I mentally said to myself that it was time to buck up my ideas, improve and do the things that I have said I would and ultimately haven't. Do I want to be a millionaire? Nah I don't - that is too much responsibility and paying tax on that would end me (sorry HMRC) but I do want to maintain this site and take it on to bigger and better things. Oh and Youtube. Yes Youtube, the top of the to do list. Life is a little manic until October but buggar it come October I am going to sit in front of that camera and let you guys into my life or make-up bag. Potato. Potatoe. Oh and that the only person that can make this happen is me. I believe they call that the double whammy of banal expressions? 

#Girlboss isn't life changing nor will it turn you into Alan Sugar overnight but it might just make you buck up your ideas and realise that ambition is a great driver. Oh get me with the sugary sweet ending. 

You can find #Girlboss by Sophia Amoruso via Amazon for £10.49 - link
The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks

In the warmer weather I prefer a lighter lipstick formulation and find myself more drawn to moisturising and to an extent glossy lipsticks. One product that offers all of this and more is The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks, if you like products in the vain of Revlon Lip Butters but wish for something more sheer this could be the very thing for you.

The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks
The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks

Can I be entirely honest? Of course I can it is my blog! Growing up I used to deem The Body Shop naff and thought it was for hippies. No really! Then one day I went in (begrudgingly may I add) with a friend while she stocked up on Banana Shampoo and the rest they say is history. Over the years I have seen The Body Shop evolve and find that as the years go by the make-up products seem to be more and more desirable - well for me at least. The packaging of The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks is great, small, sleek silver tubes that don't look nor feel cheap and should appeal to most. They travel well and are a great size for popping into a bag or even pocket!

The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks
The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks
The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks

Within The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipstick range there is ten shades which includes standard hues such as red, nude and a good few pinks. The great thing about this being a sheer formulation is that you don't have to put as much thought into purchasing a shade as they don't mask the natural lip colour so in theory all 10 shades should be wearable for all! I have the following colours: 14 - Magenta de Rouge, this looks a lot brighter in the bullet than it is on the lips. Once worn it is a light but fairly bright sheer pink. I also have 15 Fuchsia Flirt - another pink, this leans slightly red but again is fairly bright and lastly 18 Sunset Romance - a pink based coral. As you will see below all three shades don't look all that dissimilar on the lips although you can see the differences in the arm swatches. This of course is due to the formula being sheer.

The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks
The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks
The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks
The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks

Sheer, moisturising and slightly glossy is how I would sum up The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks. They are essentially a step up from a tinted lip balm but offer a little more pigment and less slip and slide than a typical balm. The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks feel light on the lips, are comfortable and don't have a tendency to cling to dry areas. As they are slightly balm like the wear time is fairly restricted - around an hour or so per application and no that doesn't include eating or drinking. Despite having a glossy sheen they are not in the slightest sticky and don't have a tendency to smudge or smear. All in all a great summer lipstick or the perfect choice for those that prefer a hydrating slick of colour rather than a full coverage lipstick.

You can find the The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks here for £10 each - link.
This post contains press samples.

The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks Review

The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks

In the warmer weather I prefer a lighter lipstick formulation and find myself more drawn to moisturising and to an extent glossy lipsticks. One product that offers all of this and more is The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks, if you like products in the vain of Revlon Lip Butters but wish for something more sheer this could be the very thing for you.

The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks
The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks

Can I be entirely honest? Of course I can it is my blog! Growing up I used to deem The Body Shop naff and thought it was for hippies. No really! Then one day I went in (begrudgingly may I add) with a friend while she stocked up on Banana Shampoo and the rest they say is history. Over the years I have seen The Body Shop evolve and find that as the years go by the make-up products seem to be more and more desirable - well for me at least. The packaging of The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks is great, small, sleek silver tubes that don't look nor feel cheap and should appeal to most. They travel well and are a great size for popping into a bag or even pocket!

The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks
The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks
The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks

Within The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipstick range there is ten shades which includes standard hues such as red, nude and a good few pinks. The great thing about this being a sheer formulation is that you don't have to put as much thought into purchasing a shade as they don't mask the natural lip colour so in theory all 10 shades should be wearable for all! I have the following colours: 14 - Magenta de Rouge, this looks a lot brighter in the bullet than it is on the lips. Once worn it is a light but fairly bright sheer pink. I also have 15 Fuchsia Flirt - another pink, this leans slightly red but again is fairly bright and lastly 18 Sunset Romance - a pink based coral. As you will see below all three shades don't look all that dissimilar on the lips although you can see the differences in the arm swatches. This of course is due to the formula being sheer.

The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks
The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks
The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks
The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks

Sheer, moisturising and slightly glossy is how I would sum up The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks. They are essentially a step up from a tinted lip balm but offer a little more pigment and less slip and slide than a typical balm. The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks feel light on the lips, are comfortable and don't have a tendency to cling to dry areas. As they are slightly balm like the wear time is fairly restricted - around an hour or so per application and no that doesn't include eating or drinking. Despite having a glossy sheen they are not in the slightest sticky and don't have a tendency to smudge or smear. All in all a great summer lipstick or the perfect choice for those that prefer a hydrating slick of colour rather than a full coverage lipstick.

You can find the The Body Shop Colour Crush Shine Lipsticks here for £10 each - link.
This post contains press samples.
Does A Budget Matter - Eye Cream Edition

I've teamed up with Voucher Codes to find out does the price of a product really matter?
I mean how often have you been pleasantly surprised by a bargain yet let down by a high end product? Three different eye creams, three different price tags: under £5, under £10 and under £20.
Which one came out the overall winner? Let's find out!

Does A Budget Matter - Eye Cream Edition

Under £5 - Boots Vitamin E Gentle Eye Cream £1.69 - link.
For the price point I have to say I was pleasantly surprised by this eye cream, it has a lovely thick texture that really moisturises the under eye yet doesn't feel heavy on the skin. It is easily absorbed so you can apply it in the morning before make-up should you wish. Boots do claim that it can reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and dark circles. In all honesty I am a little sceptical given how little it costs but it does contain Vitamin E to help improve the elasticity of skin. I used to swear by The Body Shop's Vitamin E Eye Cream which costs £11, I would honestly say that Boots Vitamin E Gentle Eye Cream is pretty much the same formula only marginally cheaper. A great starter eye cream for those with no ageing concerns.
Overall score - 8/10

Does A Budget Matter - Eye Cream Edition

Under £10 - Eau Thermale Avene Soothing Eye Contour Cream £9.50 - link
I personally love Avene products but the Soothing Eye Contour Cream was not for me.
I found it to be greasy which I guess I could deal with if it was a night time product but rather than absorb it sat on top of my skin and never sank in. It claims to be light weight (it isn't) and contains chamomile to soothe the eye area. This product has been designed to moisturise and de-puff the skin as well as calming any redness or irritation. I've tried to get on board with this a few times but simply can not get it to work for my skin type. I didn't find it particularly cooling or calming either. Sorry Avene this one is a skip!
Overall score - 2/10

Does A Budget Matter - Eye Cream Edition

Under £20 - NUXE Anti-Fatigue Moisturizing Eye Cream £18 - link
There was a time this eye cream would have received 10/10 from me but since the first time I have used this, I have tried many other eye creams some of which blow this out the water. Don't get me wrong this is a wonderful eye cream, it is light yet deeply hydrating. It boasts the technology to both soothe puffy skin and combat fine lines. It absorbs instantly, makes a great base for make-up and is a great general all round eye cream for those in their mid-twenties to thirties but like I said there is better out there. Would I purchase NUXE Anti-Fatigue Moisturizing Eye Cream again? Yes but I do feel like it's general eye properties such as moisturising and cooling the eye area outweigh its anti-ageing benefits which is generally what I use an eye cream for. That being said if you simply what a rich yet light eye cream this is the one to go for from the bunch.
Overall score - 7/10

So no, budget really doesn't matter.
It is a case of being able to shop with an open mind which is easier said than done.
You can find discount codes for some of the products mentioned above here - link.

Disclaimer - This was a collaborative post, all content was written by myself.
Voucher codes supplied the products with no monetary gain.






Does A Budget Matter - The Eye Cream Edition

Does A Budget Matter - Eye Cream Edition

I've teamed up with Voucher Codes to find out does the price of a product really matter?
I mean how often have you been pleasantly surprised by a bargain yet let down by a high end product? Three different eye creams, three different price tags: under £5, under £10 and under £20.
Which one came out the overall winner? Let's find out!

Does A Budget Matter - Eye Cream Edition

Under £5 - Boots Vitamin E Gentle Eye Cream £1.69 - link.
For the price point I have to say I was pleasantly surprised by this eye cream, it has a lovely thick texture that really moisturises the under eye yet doesn't feel heavy on the skin. It is easily absorbed so you can apply it in the morning before make-up should you wish. Boots do claim that it can reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and dark circles. In all honesty I am a little sceptical given how little it costs but it does contain Vitamin E to help improve the elasticity of skin. I used to swear by The Body Shop's Vitamin E Eye Cream which costs £11, I would honestly say that Boots Vitamin E Gentle Eye Cream is pretty much the same formula only marginally cheaper. A great starter eye cream for those with no ageing concerns.
Overall score - 8/10

Does A Budget Matter - Eye Cream Edition

Under £10 - Eau Thermale Avene Soothing Eye Contour Cream £9.50 - link
I personally love Avene products but the Soothing Eye Contour Cream was not for me.
I found it to be greasy which I guess I could deal with if it was a night time product but rather than absorb it sat on top of my skin and never sank in. It claims to be light weight (it isn't) and contains chamomile to soothe the eye area. This product has been designed to moisturise and de-puff the skin as well as calming any redness or irritation. I've tried to get on board with this a few times but simply can not get it to work for my skin type. I didn't find it particularly cooling or calming either. Sorry Avene this one is a skip!
Overall score - 2/10

Does A Budget Matter - Eye Cream Edition

Under £20 - NUXE Anti-Fatigue Moisturizing Eye Cream £18 - link
There was a time this eye cream would have received 10/10 from me but since the first time I have used this, I have tried many other eye creams some of which blow this out the water. Don't get me wrong this is a wonderful eye cream, it is light yet deeply hydrating. It boasts the technology to both soothe puffy skin and combat fine lines. It absorbs instantly, makes a great base for make-up and is a great general all round eye cream for those in their mid-twenties to thirties but like I said there is better out there. Would I purchase NUXE Anti-Fatigue Moisturizing Eye Cream again? Yes but I do feel like it's general eye properties such as moisturising and cooling the eye area outweigh its anti-ageing benefits which is generally what I use an eye cream for. That being said if you simply what a rich yet light eye cream this is the one to go for from the bunch.
Overall score - 7/10

So no, budget really doesn't matter.
It is a case of being able to shop with an open mind which is easier said than done.
You can find discount codes for some of the products mentioned above here - link.

Disclaimer - This was a collaborative post, all content was written by myself.
Voucher codes supplied the products with no monetary gain.






The Daily Beauty Report (28.07.14)

Today I have lots of snippets of beauty news to see us through such a gloomy, over cast Monday...

This November Charlotte Tilbury will launch The Supermodel collection, family and friends if you are reading I wouldn't mind this for Christmas. Hint, hint - nudge, nudge. "The Supermodel collection, a range of limited edition products to bring out the Supermodel in every woman. Inspired by the supermodels of the 1990's to current icons, the new collection captures the DNA of the ultimate smoky eye paired with a nude lip with shades and formulas that work for every skin tone. New Luxury Palette for eyes in Fallen Angel combines a wet and dry finish, used dry for a buildable layer of colour or with a damped brush with water for three times the colour intensity and reflective finish. Shades include Prime (golden pearl), Enhance (molten silver), Smoke (matte sooty black) and Pop (metallic bronze).K.I.S.S.I.N.G Lipstick in Confession is a dusky nude flecked with pure gold particles, containing a an extract from the Lipstick Tree to naturally protect lips from UV damage and external pollution; while Lip Lustre in Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds is a vintage rose champagne shade with golden pearls, enriched with lotus flower extract the protect, hydrate and smooth lips. "

If you are obsessed with scenting your home the launch of this new brand may be for you! "New luxury home fragrance brand, Gli Oli has launched. The brand specialises in a range of scented candles and reed diffusers, using only 100% pure essential oils, natural soy wax and soy-based diffuser bases. Products are hand-blended, hand-poured and hand-packed using only British-based suppliers who are committed to sustainability. The Gli Oli product range spans five home fragrance blends, each available as candles and diffusers, which contain between 10-15% essential oils; providing long-lasting fragrances with the therapeutic benefits of the oils they contain."

A new and limited edition Diptyque fragrance is on the way, having tested it at a press day I can say it is quite powdery and unlike anything else by the brand. The new candle is amazing, a work of art if you will - ceramic and a medley of grey, white and black swirls."French perfumer Diptyque has announced the launch of The 34 Collection, a new range of fragrances inspired by the 34 boulevard Saint Germain location. The 34 Collection covers personal fragrance, home fragrance and for the first time, eclectic objects. Essences Insenséeseau de parfum is the product of the brand's collaboration with perfumer Fabrice Pellegrin, comprising notes including violet, pink pepper, Provence rose, mimosa flowers, vanilla, maté and beeswax. The scent will also be available as a solid perfume. The collection offers three scented candles that comprise a fragrance from a place rather than an ingredient, including: Le Redouté, a spicy woody floral fragrance with notes of cinnamon, cloves, orange, roses, cedar and amber; Les Lilas, a floral fragrance that contains notes of white lilac, heliotrope, Mexican orange trees and spearmint; and Curiosités, inspired by the Desmond Knox-Leet workshop and containing notes of dried angelica, clove leaves, Alaska cypress, rosewood, Styrax gurn and ambergris. Le Bazar Du 34, a range of objects that include candle holders, cold water fragrance diffusers with ceramic bases and stationery printed on recycled or environmentally friendly materials, also forms part of the collection." Launch date is September.

I'm so over Summer. Sorry I am. I prefer Autumn and Winter so I do apologise for being a little over keen when it comes to showcasing Christmas launches. Sorry! Speaking of which a super, sleek nail line up from The Lacquer Lab will be launching this November. "Nail brand The Lacquer Lab has announced the launch of The Novella Collection, a new collection of nail lacquers for Christmas and winter 2014. The new collection comprises five luxe-crémes and one glitter dust in shades including Lover at The Ritz (plum), Pocket Full of Jewels (gold glitter dust & shards of opalescent flakes), Cigarillo (tobacco-camel), A Lady's Confession (blood red), Storyteller (moody grey/blue) and The Wonderous (nude)." They will cost £9 each or £48 for the set once they launch on the 1st of November.

Excuse the blurry photo but you will have to take my word for it when I say the packaging of this line up is beautiful. "Windle & Moodie has announced the launch of its début haircare line. Created by hair duo Paul Windle and Neil Moodie who have 30 years experience within the industry working with A-list celebrities and models, the new line of 22 eco-friendly shampoos, conditioners and treatments are an extension to the salon in Covent Garden; combining pioneering hair treatments and performance-driven styling products. Key ingredients within the range include rooibos, yerba mate and green tea, cocoa butter, wheat protein, tea tree, green coffee, sage, eucalyptus, sugar beet, volcanic ash, as well as argan, manoi, apricot, coconut, camellia and oat oils. All the hair shampoos and conditioners are infused with high-quality, food-grade teas which are know for their antioxidant properties and were cultivated by a renowned tea specialist on their own plantations in ecologically clean and pure regions around the world. Key products include: Invisible Day & Night Cream, which is a light moisturiser that brings the skincare concept into haircare. More damage is done to hair in the process of sleeping as hairs rub against each other causing friction and this product protects against this; Foundation Spray is a de-tangler and moisturiser which prepares hair for styling; and Essentials Oils Elixir is a pre-shampoo treatment which nourishes and perfects glossy hair. Made in the UK, the Windle & Moodie collection is free of sulphates, propylene glycol, silicones and parabens." This will launch this coming August and be exclusive to Liberty.

I think we have all established I adore Bella Freud (guilty), if like me you are guilty of being a fan girl you can now purchase the three cult Bella Freud scents from Harvey Nichols - link.
The line consists of three scents: Ginsberg is God (black pepper, tomato leaf, fig, elemi, sacred woods, resins, wormwood, moss and leather), Je t'aime Jane (jasmine absolute, ylang-ylang, orange blossom, tiger lily, black oud, sandalwood and powdery musk) and 1970 (May rose, saffron, incense, myrrh, sandalwood, vetiver, patchouli, moss, musk and benzoin). You need them all. Okay I need them all.

The Daily Beauty Report (28.07.14)

The Daily Beauty Report (28.07.14)

Today I have lots of snippets of beauty news to see us through such a gloomy, over cast Monday...

This November Charlotte Tilbury will launch The Supermodel collection, family and friends if you are reading I wouldn't mind this for Christmas. Hint, hint - nudge, nudge. "The Supermodel collection, a range of limited edition products to bring out the Supermodel in every woman. Inspired by the supermodels of the 1990's to current icons, the new collection captures the DNA of the ultimate smoky eye paired with a nude lip with shades and formulas that work for every skin tone. New Luxury Palette for eyes in Fallen Angel combines a wet and dry finish, used dry for a buildable layer of colour or with a damped brush with water for three times the colour intensity and reflective finish. Shades include Prime (golden pearl), Enhance (molten silver), Smoke (matte sooty black) and Pop (metallic bronze).K.I.S.S.I.N.G Lipstick in Confession is a dusky nude flecked with pure gold particles, containing a an extract from the Lipstick Tree to naturally protect lips from UV damage and external pollution; while Lip Lustre in Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds is a vintage rose champagne shade with golden pearls, enriched with lotus flower extract the protect, hydrate and smooth lips. "

If you are obsessed with scenting your home the launch of this new brand may be for you! "New luxury home fragrance brand, Gli Oli has launched. The brand specialises in a range of scented candles and reed diffusers, using only 100% pure essential oils, natural soy wax and soy-based diffuser bases. Products are hand-blended, hand-poured and hand-packed using only British-based suppliers who are committed to sustainability. The Gli Oli product range spans five home fragrance blends, each available as candles and diffusers, which contain between 10-15% essential oils; providing long-lasting fragrances with the therapeutic benefits of the oils they contain."

A new and limited edition Diptyque fragrance is on the way, having tested it at a press day I can say it is quite powdery and unlike anything else by the brand. The new candle is amazing, a work of art if you will - ceramic and a medley of grey, white and black swirls."French perfumer Diptyque has announced the launch of The 34 Collection, a new range of fragrances inspired by the 34 boulevard Saint Germain location. The 34 Collection covers personal fragrance, home fragrance and for the first time, eclectic objects. Essences Insenséeseau de parfum is the product of the brand's collaboration with perfumer Fabrice Pellegrin, comprising notes including violet, pink pepper, Provence rose, mimosa flowers, vanilla, maté and beeswax. The scent will also be available as a solid perfume. The collection offers three scented candles that comprise a fragrance from a place rather than an ingredient, including: Le Redouté, a spicy woody floral fragrance with notes of cinnamon, cloves, orange, roses, cedar and amber; Les Lilas, a floral fragrance that contains notes of white lilac, heliotrope, Mexican orange trees and spearmint; and Curiosités, inspired by the Desmond Knox-Leet workshop and containing notes of dried angelica, clove leaves, Alaska cypress, rosewood, Styrax gurn and ambergris. Le Bazar Du 34, a range of objects that include candle holders, cold water fragrance diffusers with ceramic bases and stationery printed on recycled or environmentally friendly materials, also forms part of the collection." Launch date is September.

I'm so over Summer. Sorry I am. I prefer Autumn and Winter so I do apologise for being a little over keen when it comes to showcasing Christmas launches. Sorry! Speaking of which a super, sleek nail line up from The Lacquer Lab will be launching this November. "Nail brand The Lacquer Lab has announced the launch of The Novella Collection, a new collection of nail lacquers for Christmas and winter 2014. The new collection comprises five luxe-crémes and one glitter dust in shades including Lover at The Ritz (plum), Pocket Full of Jewels (gold glitter dust & shards of opalescent flakes), Cigarillo (tobacco-camel), A Lady's Confession (blood red), Storyteller (moody grey/blue) and The Wonderous (nude)." They will cost £9 each or £48 for the set once they launch on the 1st of November.

Excuse the blurry photo but you will have to take my word for it when I say the packaging of this line up is beautiful. "Windle & Moodie has announced the launch of its début haircare line. Created by hair duo Paul Windle and Neil Moodie who have 30 years experience within the industry working with A-list celebrities and models, the new line of 22 eco-friendly shampoos, conditioners and treatments are an extension to the salon in Covent Garden; combining pioneering hair treatments and performance-driven styling products. Key ingredients within the range include rooibos, yerba mate and green tea, cocoa butter, wheat protein, tea tree, green coffee, sage, eucalyptus, sugar beet, volcanic ash, as well as argan, manoi, apricot, coconut, camellia and oat oils. All the hair shampoos and conditioners are infused with high-quality, food-grade teas which are know for their antioxidant properties and were cultivated by a renowned tea specialist on their own plantations in ecologically clean and pure regions around the world. Key products include: Invisible Day & Night Cream, which is a light moisturiser that brings the skincare concept into haircare. More damage is done to hair in the process of sleeping as hairs rub against each other causing friction and this product protects against this; Foundation Spray is a de-tangler and moisturiser which prepares hair for styling; and Essentials Oils Elixir is a pre-shampoo treatment which nourishes and perfects glossy hair. Made in the UK, the Windle & Moodie collection is free of sulphates, propylene glycol, silicones and parabens." This will launch this coming August and be exclusive to Liberty.

I think we have all established I adore Bella Freud (guilty), if like me you are guilty of being a fan girl you can now purchase the three cult Bella Freud scents from Harvey Nichols - link.
The line consists of three scents: Ginsberg is God (black pepper, tomato leaf, fig, elemi, sacred woods, resins, wormwood, moss and leather), Je t'aime Jane (jasmine absolute, ylang-ylang, orange blossom, tiger lily, black oud, sandalwood and powdery musk) and 1970 (May rose, saffron, incense, myrrh, sandalwood, vetiver, patchouli, moss, musk and benzoin). You need them all. Okay I need them all.

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